Traveling can be expensive, but many hotels offer complimentary items and services that are not automatically provided to every guest. By politely asking the right staff member at the appropriate time, travelers can often secure a variety of freebies to enhance their stay. These perks range from practical items like extra pillows and charging cables to experiential upgrades like room upgrades or local transportation. The following guide details common freebies available at hotels, based on insights from traveler reports and industry observations, along with guidance on how to request them.
Understanding the Basics of Requesting Freebies
The foundation of successfully obtaining complimentary items is polite and reasonable communication. Insights from a Reddit thread on travel hacks, which included comments from hotel employees, suggest that a courteous demeanor significantly increases the likelihood of a positive outcome. One user who worked at a hotel noted, “If you ask nicely I’d upgrade you if I could. I loved giving people extra stuff for free.” Another commenter from a high-revenue Marriott property emphasized the importance of managing expectations, advising travelers to “Ask in a way that expects nothing and show gratitude for the person’s efforts, not the results.”
It is important to note that availability of freebies can vary widely depending on the hotel’s brand, location, occupancy levels, and policies. Some items may be standard for certain room categories or available only during specific events. The most reliable way to learn about potential complimentary offerings is to inquire directly with hotel staff.
Common Freebies and How to Request Them
Room Upgrades
A room upgrade involves being moved from a standard room to a better-quality room, such as one with a larger bed, more square footage, a better view, or a higher floor. Upgrades are considered more complex to secure, as hotels typically charge for these amenities. Success often depends on factors like hotel occupancy (if the hotel is not fully booked, there may be more unsold premium rooms available), your reason for staying, or a special circumstance. To ask for an upgrade, the recommended approach is to inquire politely at check-in. It is helpful to frame the request as a curiosity rather than a demand, for example, by asking if any complimentary upgrades are available for your stay. Some travelers have reported success when celebrating a special occasion, though this is not guaranteed.
Breakfast and Food/Drink
Complimentary breakfast is a common perk, but it is not always included in every room rate. Some hotels provide breakfast vouchers or have a breakfast buffet available for all guests. To inquire, you can ask at check-in if breakfast is included or if there are any vouchers available. Be polite and mention you are curious about complimentary offerings for guests. Additionally, some higher-end hotels offer complimentary wine and cheese trays during events. If you find the in-room snacks and drinks (like coffee pods or bottled water) are insufficient, you can ask the front desk or housekeeping for more. Hotels with in-room coffee makers usually have extra supplies at the front desk.
Bedding and Comfort Items
Hotels typically have additional pillows and blankets available for guests. If the number of pillows in your room is not sufficient, you can call the front desk or housekeeping to request extra pillows or blankets. Simply state that you would like a bit more comfort during your stay. This is a common request and is usually fulfilled quickly.
Toiletries and Personal Care Items
Many hotels place complimentary slippers and bathrobes in rooms, especially at higher-end properties. If these are not already in your room, you can ask the front desk to provide them. Other personal care items like laundry bags or shoe shine kits may also be available upon request, though they are often stored in closets and may not be automatically offered.
Transportation and Local Guides
Some hotels offer shuttle services to nearby attractions or airports. This service may not be advertised at check-in, so it is worth asking if any free transportation options are available. For guests who prefer to explore on their own, hotels, particularly boutique or LGBTQ+ friendly properties, may offer local maps, guides, or walking maps. These can provide personalized recommendations for exploring the area.
Activity and Entertainment Items
To enhance in-room entertainment, some hotels have small libraries or game rooms. Guests can ask the front desk if they have board games, cards, or books available to borrow. This can be a low-key and enjoyable way to spend time, especially for families or those seeking a quiet activity.
Practical and Convenience Items
Several practical items can often be borrowed or obtained for free: * Umbrellas: Many hotels provide complimentary umbrellas for guests to borrow during their stay, which is useful for unexpected rain. * Phone Chargers: Forgetting a phone charger is a common travel mishap. Hotels often have spare chargers available for guests who ask. * Bike Rentals: Some hotels have bike-sharing programs, either through the hotel itself or a partner company, to promote eco-friendly travel. These are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis. * Parking Vouchers: Depending on the hotel and its location, you might be able to get parking vouchers, especially if you are staying multiple nights or attending a special event. * Fitness Center Access: While access to the fitness center or spa may be included with your room, if it is not, you can sometimes ask for a free day pass or discounted access.
Special Requests and Services
- Early Check-In: If you arrive before the standard check-in time, it is worth asking about the possibility of an early check-in. Availability depends on the hotel’s occupancy and cleaning schedule, so it is best to discuss this as early as possible.
- Car Service: Some hotels offer complimentary car services for local trips. This service is often based on availability and may require advance reservation. If you are interested, ask about this option early in your stay. It is customary to tip the driver if you use this service.
Conclusion
A wide array of complimentary items and services can enhance a hotel stay, from practical necessities like extra pillows and phone chargers to experiential perks like room upgrades and local transportation. The key to accessing these freebies is polite communication with hotel staff. By asking the right questions at check-in or during your stay, travelers can often secure items that make their trip more comfortable and memorable. While availability is not guaranteed and varies by property, the potential for a complimentary upgrade or item makes it worthwhile to inquire.